Access Bank’s Africa Trade Conference 2026: Shaping the Future of Global Trade
Access Bank Plc has officially announced an exciting line-up of global policymakers, finance leaders, and industry experts set to headline the Africa Trade Conference (ATC) scheduled for March 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in South Africa. This conference promises to be an influential gathering, focusing on transforming Africa’s trade landscape.
Theme and Objectives
The 2026 ATC is themed “Turning Vision into Velocity: Building Africa’s Trade Ecosystem for Real-World Impact.” This high-level strategic convening aims to accelerate Africa’s involvement in global trade discussions and initiatives. In line with this ambition, the conference will emphasize the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), exploring vital strategies such as policy harmonization, infrastructure development, digitization, and innovative financing.
Keynote Addresses
Among the highlights of the conference will be the keynote address delivered by Kennedy Mbekeani, the Director-General for the Southern Africa Region at the African Development Bank. He will be joined by Kwabena Ayirebi, the Managing Director of Banking Operations at the African Export-Import Bank. Their joint address will focus on the evolving landscape for financing African trade and the strategic pathways necessary to unlock continental prosperity.
Welcome Address Insights
The welcome address will be presented by Access Bank’s Chief Executive Officer and Group Managing Director, Roosevelt Ogbonna. He plans to set the stage for discussions surrounding trade transformation, financial inclusion, and regional competitiveness. Notably, Tolu Oyekan from Boston Consulting Group will provide insights on “Africa Trade Outlook 2026,” which will delve into emerging macroeconomic trends, supply chain dynamics, and growth opportunities across key sectors.
Innovation in Trade and Payments
A significant panel discussion will be led by Mike Ogbalu, CEO of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System. He aims to engage participants on the theme “Building a Connected Africa Through Trade, Payments and Technology.” This topic will highlight how payment interoperability and enhanced digital infrastructure can further the AfCFTA agenda, facilitating smoother trade across African nations.
Ministerial Panel
The conference will also feature a high-caliber ministerial panel, including several prominent figures such as Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Ghana’s Minister for Trade, and Tiroeaone Ntsima, Botswana’s Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship. This diverse group will engage in insightful dialogues about shaping trade policies on the continent, thereby providing invaluable perspectives to attendees.
The Importance of the Conference
Roosevelt Ogbonna emphasized that the Africa Trade Conference transcends mere discussion. “Africa is no longer at the margins of global trade conversations,” he stated, asserting the conference’s role as a platform for tangible action rather than rhetoric. It aims to gather influential personalities who shape policy, capital, infrastructure, and innovation to collaboratively define Africa’s trade future.
Ogbonna articulated Access Bank’s broader vision, stating, “We see ourselves not just as financiers but as connectors of markets, ideas, and opportunities.” The goal is to help African businesses transition from mere ambition to real-world impact and global competitiveness.
Access Bank’s Unique Position
With operations in 24 countries worldwide, including 16 in Africa, Access Bank holds a unique position in facilitating cross-border trade and unlocking regional value chains. Ogbonna noted, “Our presence across Africa gives us a front-row seat to the realities of trade.” This vantage point not only informs their strategic initiatives but also underscores their responsibility to develop inclusive, scalable, and future-oriented solutions.
Catalyzing Partnerships
Scheduled for March 2026, the Africa Trade Conference is poised to catalyze partnerships, enable policy dialogue, and generate actionable strategies for businesses both within and beyond the continent. Ogbonna reiterates the message that “Africa will not be a spectator in the remaking of global trade,” emphasizing that the continent aspires to be one of its architects.
The Africa Trade Conference 2026 promises to be a landmark event, bringing together key stakeholders to collaboratively map out the future of trade in Africa.
